The Mind Research Network

Programs: The mind research network is dedicated to the discovery and advancement of clinical solutions for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and other brain disorders. When the mind research network (mrn) was established in 1998 as an independent non-profit research organization, its programs of investigation were aimed at projects in clinical, cognitive, and basic neuroscience using an array of imaging technologies to investigate the working brain, both for normal subjects, as well as those afflicted by brain disease. These technologies included structural magnetic resonance (smr), functional magnetic resonance (fmr), magnetoencephalography (meg), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (mrs), and optical imaging. While each technology alone has limitations, mrn has worked vigorously to develop techniques that combine these multiple tools to yield a more complete and comprehensive "multi-modal" approach than is possible using the same tools individually. Building on these strengths, the organization has integrated genetic analysis and clinical assessments with structural and function imaging data to advance the early diagnosis of mental illness. Mrn's long-term goal is to advance clinical solutions that will improve outcomes for patients with mental illness or brain disorders. Collectively, millions of years of potentially productive life are lost to mental illness and brain disorders, making research on early diagnosis and prevention one of the top priorities for the national institutes of health. Mrn's research portfolio is comprised of over 50 contracts, grants, and subawards valued at approximately $84m and spanning several thematic areas: (1) psychosis (e. G. , schizophrenia), (2) substance abuse disorders and addiction, (3) conduct disorders/anti-social personality disorders, (4) neurodevelopment disorders (e. G. , autism, add/adhd). In addition, mrn is involved in research on human factors and performance, including creativity, tbi/ptsd, and enhanced functioning. Major sponsors are the national institutes of health, national science foundation, and other federal agencies. Mrn employs approximately 120 staff and contract personnel.